Bulimia Nervosa

Definition

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder. People who have bulimia are overly concerned with weight and body image. They eat large amounts of food (called binge eating) and use inappropriate means to rid their bodies of the food (called purging) or excessive calories. Purging may be done through vomiting, laxatives, or water pills. Excessive exercise or fasting may replace or be used along with purging. This cycle of binge eating and purging is used to prevent weight gain.

Causes

The exact cause of bulimia is unknown. Factors that may contribute to this condition include:

Cultural bias toward thinness

Psychological problems due to changes in the level of brain chemicals, such as depression

Emotional stress

Distorted self-image

Risk Factors

Bulimia is more young women, especially between 11-20 years old. Other factors that may increase your chance of bulimia include: